PROTEST MEETING ON MURDER OF DEMOCRACY IN FIJI

A protest meeting was convened on 2nd June 2000 at the Constitution Club, New Delhi, to condemn the coup and democratic crisis in Fiji. The meeting brought together political leaders, diplomats, journalists, and business representatives to express solidarity with the Indian-origin Fijian community and raise concerns over the violation of democratic principles.

Key Highlights of the Meeting

1. Democracy Under Threat in Fiji

The discussion centered around the coup of May 19, 2000, where Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and his government were overthrown, leading to political instability and racial tensions in Fiji. Speakers highlighted the need for the international community, particularly India, to intervene diplomatically and uphold the rights of the Indian diaspora in Fiji.

2. Key Speakers & Their Perspectives

  • Sahib Singh (Former Chief Minister of Delhi)

    • Strongly condemned the coup, calling it an assault on democratic values.
    • Urged the Indian government to take a firm stance in international forums.

  • Baleshwar Agarwal (General Secretary, ARSP - Antar-Rashtriya Sahayog Parishad)

    • Emphasized the need for greater diplomatic engagement between India and Fiji.
    • Highlighted the historical ties between India and the Indian-origin community in Fiji.

  • Sangh Priya Gautam (Member of Parliament)

    • Stressed the constitutional violations in Fiji.
    • Called for stronger action from the United Nations and human rights organizations.

  • S. Chari (Editor, Organiser)

    • Discussed the geopolitical impact of the coup on the Indian community and global democracy.
    • Warned against the rise of authoritarianism in small island nations.

  • S. Bhutyan (General Secretary, ASSOCHAM)

    • Spoke on the economic consequences of political instability in Fiji.
    • Stressed the need for global business communities to advocate for democracy.

  • Dr. Bimlesh K. Verma (Former First Secretary of India in Fiji)

    • Provided a first-hand account of Indo-Fijian relations.
    • Called for international pressure on the Fijian military regime.

  • N.N. Jha (BJP Foreign Cell Convenor)

    • Criticized the lack of strong international condemnation of the coup.
    • Urged India to play a more active diplomatic role in restoring democracy.

  • Sunil Shastri (Former Cabinet Minister, U.P.)

    • Drew historical parallels between India’s own struggle for democracy and Fiji’s current crisis.
    • Encouraged civil society and media to raise awareness on the issue.

3. Resolutions Passed at the Protest Meeting

The meeting concluded with the adoption of several key resolutions, including:

✅ Strong condemnation of the coup and demand for the immediate restoration of democracy in Fiji.
✅ Appeal to the Government of India to engage in diplomatic efforts to protect the rights of the Indian-origin community in Fiji.
✅ Call for international organizations, including the UN, Commonwealth, and ASEAN, to take decisive action against the military regime.
✅ Encouragement of civil society and media to highlight the plight of Indo-Fijians and advocate for their rights.

Conclusion

The protest meeting served as an important platform for voicing concerns over the political turmoil in Fiji and reinforcing India’s commitment to global democracy and human rights. The event concluded with a pledge to continue advocating for justice and democratic governance in Fiji.